Job Title: Upper Elementary (4th-6th grades) Lead Teacher
Reports To: Head of School
Description and Mission: Mountain Village Charter School, is a public, tuition-free, elementary charter school, that opened in Plymouth, NH in the fall of 2014. Starting with lower elementary classrooms of grades 1-3, the school will add one grade per year through 8th grade. The curriculum combines Montessori methods, a nature-based philosophy and approach and meets Common Core Standards. Thusly offering the experience of both a Montessori classroom and significant outdoor time each day.
We are growing and searching for innovative educators who are eager to be challenged! Mountain Village Charter School is seeking another Upper Elementary Lead Teacher to join our expanding program. This is an exciting opportunity to teach at the nation's first public, nature-based Montessori elementary school. We are adding one more 4th-6th grade class for a total of two.
We are seeking world-class educators who are looking to bring innovation into the classroom and who desire to work with nature-based, Montessori pedagogy. At Mountain Village Charter School, your educational passion and creativity can have a potential impact on the design of our progressive, integrated curriculum. As a Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for all aspects of your students' classroom experience and for developing strong partnerships with parents. Other important duties include advancing your professional and personal growth, collegiality, and administrative duties. All teachers attend regular meetings, observe, advise, and serve as a mentor and role model for other faculty in the areas of nature-based, Montessori methodology, curriculum management, classroom schedules, record keeping, student needs, and the classroom environment.
The ideal candidate will have at least three years' experience in both Montessori and nature-based pedagogy at the upper elementary school level. They will value student-centered approaches to learning, and love teaching and learning in the outdoors. Additionally, the ideal candidate will: embrace the mission of the school; possess excellent written and verbal communication skills; function very effectively as a member of a collaborative teaching team; engage enthusiastically with families and other members of the school community; and embrace the opportunities and challenges of teaching in an innovative, start-up school.
Specific Responsibilities
Direct the learning in one 4th-6th grade Upper Elementary Montessori, nature-based classroom of up to 24 students. Work in tandem with a full time teacher assistant
Work collaboratively with the Upper El team (another 4th-6th grade class and a middle school 7th-8th grade class).
Promote a safe and effective learning environment through implementation of positive and educational behavior management approaches.
Lead and facilitate daily outdoor explorations and structured lessons, in all weather and seasons.
Manage the risk to students while in an outdoor setting.
Prepare written student assessment reports for parents periodically (2-4 times) through the school year, and lead parent-teacher conferences.
Implement all steps necessary to address NH Common Core standards in classroom, and to participate in state standardized assessments.
Interact professionally with all members of the school community: parents, administrators, students, staff and volunteers.
Maintain excellence in teaching through ongoing development and training.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree or Higher (Education-related or content-related field preferred)
Successful elementary-aged teaching experience
Outdoor education, outdoor leadership or nature mentoring experience
NH Teacher Certification
Montessori Certification (Preferred)
Ability to work collaboratively with faculty to enhance curriculum and community
Commitment to professional development and best practices in education
Education experience in a variety of instructional methods
Understanding multi- age learning environments
Understanding of how to best support students in meeting the Common Core Standards
Commitment to meeting the needs of each child
First aid and CPR Certification (Wilderness First Aid, WAFA, or WFR preferred)
Proficient in the use of technology
Open mind, sense of humor, and excitement about being part of an innovative charter school
Salary and Benefits
Salary is competitive and is based on qualifications and experience. Medical insurance (or a comparable stipend), support for professional development, retirement match after one full year of employment
Job Type: Contract
Schedule:
Day shift
Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
